Our story
Hello, we’re thrive – the research and evaluation people for arts and heritage
One-of-a-kind research
We uncover the real relationship between art, policy, people, and place. Our work doesn’t just capture numbers, it helps organisations and policymakers understand what those numbers mean and how to act on them.
We created IMPACT, the first research of its kind to show who really attends the arts in Northern Ireland, and how that attendance brings economic and social value.
Expertise for the arts and heritage sectors
We offer accessible, practical help – whether free or budget-friendly – across research, evaluation, and marketing. Our team knows Northern Irish audiences inside out, and we’re here to share that knowledge to drive real change in the sector.
Because we believe that the future of arts and heritage depends on strong relationships with people. And the people here? They’re not like anywhere else.
What makes us different?
We’re the only audience development organisation on the island of Ireland
We have 20 years of experience and we’re here on the ground working in our sector. We pride ourselves on delivering practical support – we won’t just hand you a report and leave it at that.
What makes us different?
We know research and we know the sector
We carry out surveys, focus groups, observational research, interviews and ticketing analysis. We don’t just work with performing arts venues; our research is inclusive of heritage, non-ticketed and participatory projects. As a not for profit organisation funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, we can offer support that’s more affordable than commercial consultancies because we’re part of this sector, just like you.
What makes us different?
We’ll tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear
We believe in delivering the truth because our goal is to help create meaningful change within our sector. We’re clear, we care, and we’re in it for the long haul.
The people behind
the data
Our impact
We’ve surveyed 4645 audience members this year
We’ve worked with 111 organisations this year
We’ve added 582 hours of value to our sector this year
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We’re called thrive for a reason. Let us know how we can best support you. Drop us a line any time.
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